Appian Way and the Aurelian Wall Tours

168 reviews

The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) was the first and most important Imperial Roman road, stretching from Rome to Brindisi. The cobblestone road—built in the fourth century BC to transport supplies and soldiers to strategic points throughout the Roman Empire—still exists today, lined with archaeological sites and impressive ruins.

The Basics

Named for architect Appius Claudius Caecus, the Via Appia Antica was one of Rome’s main highways for centuries. As the empire began its decline in the third century and Rome experienced barbarian attacks, the Aurelian Wall was erected around the city’s seven hills for protection. This defensive wall had a number of gates, including Porta Appia (Porta San Sebastiano), which today contains a museum about the Aurelian Wall.

A guided walking or bike tour down the Appian Way from the Aurelian Wall through the Ancient Appian Way Regional Park and Caffarella Park is the perfect way to explore this historic road and the ancient sites along its route through the Roman countryside. Appian Way tours include stops at sites like the thermal baths of Caracalla, the early Christian San Callisto Catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, the tomb of Caecilia Metella, and the ancient Roman aqueducts. You can also join a guided small-group bus tour to explore the ancient road from central Rome.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you are joining a hiking or cycling tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.Via Appia Antica and sites along its route are all open-air, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.Some of the archaeological sites along the route require an entrance fee.

How to Get There

Metro line A has a stop at Parco Appia Antica, close to the entrance for Via Appia Park.

When to Get There

The Appian Way and its sights are almost entirely outside, so it’s best to visit in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. It takes anywhere from a few hours to an entire day to explore the route on foot or bike, so plan on setting off in the morning.

Parco Regionale della Via Appia Antica

The initial stretch of the Appian Way, just outside Rome’s city center, is part of a regional park, and many of the archaeological sites along the route are located within the park’s confines.

To see more of Rome’s ancient sights than what you find in the historical center, get out of the city on this electric-assist bicycle tour to the Ancient Appian Way. You’ll check out the ruins of the Aurelian Walls, the thermal Baths of Caracalla and the ancient Roman aqueducts, all the while enjoying the countryside scenery without putting in too much effort. This small-group tour (limited to 10 people) comes in two variants: a shorter 4.5-hour version and a longer six-hour one. The two variants are identical in itinerary, but differ in their inclusions. For more info please check the Important info section.

Escape the urban bustle for a day on this 6-hour culinary tour of the Roman countryside. Travel along the ancient Appian Way through historic villages like Castel Gandolfo, Nemi and Frascati, stopping at vineyards and other gourmet destinations to indulge in local flavors. Taste excellent regional wines, specialty products like ‘porchetta,’ fresh-baked biscuits and creamy gelato while your guide shares insight into the history and culture of the beautiful landscape.

Venture beneath the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) in Rome to see the catacombs of St Sebastian with a knowledgeable guide. During this 3-hour tour, you’ll walk along one of the most historic roads of ancient Rome to discover the ancient underground cemeteries, along with the aqueducts of Appian Park. Your small-group tour is limited to no more than 13 participants in order to offer a more intimate experience. Ride in air-conditioned comfort round-trip from central Rome to the Basilica of St Sebastian.

Explore the highlights of early Christian Rome with this exciting 3-hour afternoon walking tour via foot and coach. Led by a knowledgeable driver-guide, get an insider's view of the Eternal City and its Christian history. Stops include the Basilica of Sant Maria Maggiore, the Basilica of St. John Lateran. And then go underground by checking out the intriguing catacombs, an early Christian burial spot just outside of the city at the Appian Way.

Venture outside the city center to explore some of Rome’s lesser-known but most impressive imperial attractions on this 3-hour bike tour. Cycle along the legendary Appian Way, an ancient military road that winds through the countryside and connects Rome with the coastal city of Brindisi.

When in Rome, travel like a Roman aboard a vintage Vespa on this 3-hour tour. Hop aboard your classic scooter and follow your guide on a scenic route around the Aurelian Walls, along the Tiber riverfront, and out to explore the ancient ruins of the Appian Way and the idyllic Orange Garden of Aventine Hill.

Cruise through Rome on two wheels with this cycle through the Appia Antica Regional Park. Customize the itinerary according to your interests and cover ground quickly as you explore the bicycle trails of this ancient highway, home to several historic landmarks including the Villa of Massenzio. Helmets and locks are included.

Enjoy a scenic and relaxing trip to Roman countryside in this comfortable and customizable private tour, with private roundtrip transportation from your centrally located hotel in Rome, and a knowledgeable & enthusiastic driver to lead the way.
Plenty of photo opportunities along the route as we visit Nemi, Ariccia, Castelgandolfo and Frascati.

Take a break from city crowds on a private half-day cycling tour that follows in the footsteps of the ancient Romans. Your guide eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar territory on your own, and brings you to landmarks and historic sites outside the city that visitors often miss. After a working up an appetite, cap the tour with a sit-down meal at an authentic Italian restaurant.

See Rome on two wheels on this 4-hour private bike tour. You'll explore outside the historical center to discover a new piece of the city. Following a private guide, visit hidden gems that most visitors never see and get to know the real Rome through a local's eyes. A glass of wine is included.

Go underground to see Rome’s ancient catacombs and crypts on a 3.5-hour walking tour. Visit the Domitilla Catacomb and Basilica of San Clemente with skip-the-line access, plus visit the Capuchin Crypt, where you’ll see a Caravaggio painting and marvel at a chapel made entirely out of human bones. Learn about past burial customs and secret Christian worship spots during this fascinating exploration into the history of Rome.

Attend a Papal Audience with Pope Francis I at the Vatican! Tickets may be free but they are extremely hard to come by, so booking in advance is essential. By booking ahead, you're ensuring you won't waste any time trying to get tickets while you're on vacation in the Eternal City.

Experience the Roman countryside on this 3-hour tour that combines travel by vehicle and walking. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), an ancient road that leads out of the city. Visit the fascinating Catacombs of San Sebastiano or San Callisto, where you’ll walk through underground tunnels, and be wowed by the sophisticated engineering of the Roman aqueducts.

Uncover the secret side of Rome as you venture off the tourist trail on this 3.5-hour tour. Stroll the streets of the historic Jewish Ghetto, peek inside the gigantic Circus Maximus and follow part of the Ancient Roman Appian Way. Then, explore little-known historic sites like the Park of the Aqueducts and the Baths of Caracalla; look out over the city from Janiculum Hill and enjoy a unique view of St. Peter’s dome. This small-group tour is limited to 15, ensuring a personalized experience.

Spend a morning or an afternoon at the Vatican with this 2-hour skip-the-line tour of the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) and St. Peter's Basilica. Get an up close and personal look at Michelangelo's masterpiece, his murals in the Sistine Chapel that changed the history of painting forever. See Raphael's cherubs. Gawk at the Gallery of Maps. Explore St. Peter's Basilica. And if you want more, upgrade to a full-day tour and visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Catacombs and more. Lunch can also be included.

Explore some of the history of Christianity in Ancient Rome on this private tour to some of the city’s many churches. Learn about the time that St Peter and St Paul spent in Rome, including their imprisonment during the reign of Roman Emperor Nero; visit the Basilica of St Sabina, an early Christian landmark; and see the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It’s party time! Ride a vintage tram through Rome and watch a live band belt out songs by Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, the Beatles and more. With free-flowing wine included, the tram tour follows a route around several of the city’s must-see sights and includes a stop to dance outside the ancient Colosseum. Dig out your favorite 1970s outfit to wear on board, or just come dressed to dance.

Escape the heat and hustle of Rome with a half-day trip around the hill towns of Castelli Romani. Visit Lake Albano, Rocca di Papa, Castel Gandolfo, Grottaferrata and Frascati, and sample locally-made wine while learning about wine production in the area. This half-day tour is an excellent opportunity to see an untrammeled swath of the Roman countryside while learning about the history of the area from your local guide.

Zip through the bustling streets of Rome as the Romans do — on a Vespa! Hang on for the ride as your private driver and guide whisks you around on a vintage scooter for an exciting half-day tour of Eternal City highlights. Wind through traffic circles and mazelike streets, easily hopping off for a closer look at Imperial monuments and baroque piazzas. Learn about the history of Rome, from ancient emperors to the modern metropolis, and get an insider’s glimpse at some of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Discover Rome’s history on a full-day tour to Vatican City and the catacombs. Begin at the Vatican with a skip-the-line ticket to visit the museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica where you can find works of art by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael and more. Then head underground to explore the ancient Roman catacombs and other Christian landmarks such as the Cathedral of Rome and the Holy Staircase.

Explore five of Rome’s major basilicas with an option to visit the Catacombs ancient burial site, on this seven-hour private tour including transportation from your Rome hotel by air-conditioned vehicle. Visit the Eternal City’s St. Paul Outside the Walls, Santa Maria Maggiore, St. John Lateran, Holy Cross in Jerusalem, and Church of Domine Quo Vadis, learning from your private guide about their design and the relics, including from the Passion of Jesus, housed inside their ornate chambers.

See the darker side of Rome on this 3.5-hour private tour to the Appian Way, the Catacomb of San Callisto, and the Basilica of San Clemente. You'll also see the 'Bone Church,' where the skulls of Capuchin friars cover the walls. The tour ends at Piazza Barberini; hotel pickup is included but not drop-off.

Get a comprehensive overview of Rome's basilicas on this 7-hour private tour. Visit important sites in religious history such as St John in Latheran, the Holy Cross in Jerusalem and the Church Quo Vadis. Take advantage of the flexibility and personal attention that comes with booking a private tour; be sure to let your guide know if there are any sites you are particularly interested in. Round-trip private transportation from your Rome accommodation is included.

Venture off-the-beaten-track in Rome on this 6-hour bike tour, led by a Dutch-speaking guide. Journey back to Ancient Rome as you explore little-visited ruins, cycle along part of the ancient Appian Way and marvel at ancient wonders like the Circus of Maxentius, Aqueduct Park and Trajan's Thermal baths. Then, pedal along the country trails of Caffarella Park and stop to refuel with a traditional aperitif.